Plan your landscape design

Integrate landscape design early in your new build plans

When planning your new home, don’t leave landscape design as an afterthought. Great landscaping frames your home, adds street appeal, improves privacy and creates beautiful, functional spaces to relax and entertain.

Planning your outdoor spaces alongside your house design helps you get the most out of your section and saves you time, cost and headaches down the track. Whether you're dreaming of lush gardens, a private outdoor retreat or an entertainer’s paradise, here are a few tips to get started.

Work with a landscaper

A landscape professional will take your needs and ideas and develop a plan that takes your outdoor space to the next level. Most can manage the entire project themselves or provide you with a design, plan of action and list of plants.

Save the trees

Where possible, retain mature trees or established hedges. They add instant character, provide shade, and give your new garden a sense of scale and maturity.

Start with a vision

Develop a cohesive plan that includes both your home and garden layout. Think about:

How you’ll use the space
Views to highlight or screen
Privacy from neighbours
Access and flow between indoors and out

Make sure to check out our Pinterest boards for inspiration and design ideas.

Don't forget lighting

Outdoor lighting is often overlooked, but it’s essential for:

Security and safety along paths or steps
Evening entertaining
Highlighting feature plants or landscaping

Love homegrown produce?

Leave room for a veggie patch, fruit trees or a kitchen herb garden. It’s a great way to eat well and enjoy your outdoor space more often.

Be realistic about maintenance

Consider how much time and effort you want to spend on upkeep. Choosing low-maintenance plants, automated irrigation and easy-care surfaces can save you time and money long-term.